The Building Hotel

The Building Hotel is something of an urban resort in a slightly off-center part of Rome that's a great bargain for travelers of all stripes. During our 2018 visit, we spotted plenty of mature travelers, retirees, and families at the property. All are drawn by a surprising amount of amenities and mostly modern style offered at a price point that's lower than other hotels with similar features. There's just enough buzz, as the hotel's restaurant is lively at breakfast and its cafe sometimes hosts live music. You'll also find kids out splashing in the pool on warm days. Keep in mind that walks to major Rome landmarks from here might be a bit far for some travelers, but if a cheap room and nice extras are your thing, The Building Hotel might be right for you.

The Building Hotel is located in a quiet part of central Rome to the north of Termini Station. There are numerous embassies nearby, as well as several tourist-friendly restaurants. However, it's not the most charming part of town, and walks to sights like Trevi Fountain and the Roman Forum can be long (at least 30 minutes). Piazza della Repubblica is a 13-minute walk away and marks the beginning of Via Nazionale, which is packed with major shops. The Castro Pretorio Metro station is only two blocks away, which can put you closer to destinations like the Spanish Steps and Colosseum in far less time. Budget 12 minutes on foot to reach Termini Station, where you can hop a train to the airport in less than 45 minutes.

Despite this hotel's historic legacy, the rooms here have been given a modern overhaul. Expect jaunty wood headboards and moody color schemes alongside features that include Smart TVs, individually controlled AC, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. Some guests find the rooms to be too dark, though they're comfortable and clean.

A variety of categories are available, from simple Superior Rooms all the way up to Junior Suites and Suites. Some units have terraces, and certain higher-category rooms feature extras like pullout couches and lofted areas. Suites include spa time (which otherwise costs extra). Keep in mind that some Junior Suites and Suites may have steps inside of them, making them a challenge for mobility impaired guests.

Bathrooms are clean and modern across the board, and come with a mix of bathtubs or rainfall showers.

To be honest, The Building Hotel offers an array of features that's not seen in most hotels in Rome at this price point. That starts with the courtyard pool, which is popular with families and other guests alike during the warm months. It's not heated, but is a great respite from the sun during Rome's hot summers.

There's also an incredible subterranean spa that's built into the vaulted coffers below the hotel. It includes chromotherapy, a spa pool, sauna, Turkish bath, and ice showers. There's a fee to access the facilities, and massages and treatments are also offered. A fitness center with weights, resistance machines, and cardio offerings rounds out the wellness perks at The Building Hotel.

A terrace next to the courtyard is a nice place for a drink in the afternoon, seated next to a piece of Rome's ancient city walls. There's a cafe that doubles as a performance space indoors, plus a well-liked restaurant serving international fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Event space at the hotel can hold up to 200 people and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.